If you have a fourth grader, this is one of the best family perks out there and it’s completely free.
Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, your child can get a Digital 4th Grade Pass that gives your family access to thousands of outdoor recreation sites across the country.
🌲 What Is the Digital 4th Grade Pass?
The Digital 4th Grade Pass is a free America the Beautiful pass that covers:
- Entrance fees
- Standard amenity day use fees
…at recreation sites managed by six federal agencies, including the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service.
This includes national parks, forests, wildlife areas, and more.
👧 Who Qualifies?
- U.S. fourth graders
- Homeschooled or free choice learners who are 10 years old
👉 The pass is issued in the child’s name, not the parent’s, and your child must be present every time it’s used.
📅 How Long Is It Valid?
The pass is valid:
- For the entire 4th grade school year through the following summer
- Valid September 2025 through August 2026
🚗 What Does It Cover?
This is where it really helps families:
- At sites that charge per vehicle:
Covers the pass holder and everyone in one non commercial vehicle - At sites that charge per person:
Covers the pass holder plus up to 3 adults (ages 16 and older)
That makes it a great option for family outings and road trips.
✏️ How Do You Get It?
Here’s the simple process:
- Visit the Every Kid Outdoors website
- Your child completes a short activity
- Download or print the voucher
- Use that voucher to obtain your Digital 4th Grade Pass
You can access your pass by:
- Downloading it to your phone
- Adding it to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet
- Printing a copy
- Or getting a physical pass in person
⚠️ Important: If you choose the digital pass, you will not also receive a physical version.
⚠️ What It Does NOT Cover
This pass is amazing, but it doesn’t cover everything:
- Camping fees
- Parking fees at some locations
- Guided tours
- Special permits or ferry fees
Also, some sites run by private concessioners may not accept the pass.
📍 Where Can You Use It?
The pass is accepted at sites managed by:
- National Park Service
- U.S. Forest Service
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Bureau of Land Management
- Bureau of Reclamation
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific site before you go.
💡 Good to Know Before You Go
- The pass is non transferable and only valid for the named child
- Your child must be with you at the time of entry
- Some locations have limited cell service, so download or print your pass ahead of time
- At unstaffed locations, you may need to display your pass in your vehicle
💛 Why Families Love This
This program makes it easier for families to get outside, explore new places, and create memories without the added cost.
And honestly, it’s such a fun excuse to say yes to:
- A spontaneous day trip
- A new hiking trail
- A weekend adventure you might not have planned otherwise
